The Biddeford Mills Museum Film ‘A Walk Through History’ premieres Saturday Sept. 3 at Biddeford City Theater. Courtesy image
BIDDEFORD — A sawmill came first in the 1600s, followed by an iron works.
Textile mills in Biddeford and Saco emerged around 1825 — the first on Factory Island; but there were many more, and they helped sustain this community for more than 100 years.
The Biddeford Mills Museum has woven together the stories of the mills and the people who worked in them — and with the help of Lone Spruce Creative those stories have been transformed into a film called A Walk Through History.
The world premiere is set for 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 3 at Biddeford City Theater.
“A Walk-Through History” takes viewers on a tour of the Biddeford Mill complex and tells the history of the industrial revolution here, at home.
Volunteer and museum board treasurer Dorothy Mathes said she expects an enjoyable evening.
A film trailer shows images of the buildings — up close as a door is unlocked, and with drone footage. It shows images of the workers, of a young girl standing next to a loom, uniformed women folding fabric, of a ledger, and of the Saco River.
Those starring in the film are mill tour guides — Mathes said they spoke off the cuff — unscripted for the film.
A second film “Le Carrefour (The Intersection),” which tells the story of two different French speaking residents of Lewiston, will also be shown that evening.
A discussion with the filmmakers and stars will follow, moderated by former Mayor Michael Cantara.
Tickets are $10 at the door.
More information can be found at biddefordmillsmuseum.org.
The Biddeford Mills Museum is open noon to 4 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, in Building 18, Suite 108, at North Dam Mill. An exhibit honoring the immigrant populations of Biddeford is currently on display.
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